That path begins with both sides recognizing what the other is carrying — and letting go of narratives that cast boys as aggressors before they even reach adolescence. Instead, as Pepper puts it, it’s “fine to give boys and men some homework.” This homework begins with fostering self-awareness, emotional literacy and responsibility for your... See more

Whippman points out that patriarchy is not only terrible for women and girls, it ultimately works against boys and men too. It keeps them closed off, lonely, and isolated. I agree with her. Boys need to be taught that it’s okay to talk about their feelings and to want strong relationships. If they were taught these things, they may grow into... See more

If we want to interrupt this spiral, we must stop asking women to keep absorbing the damage. We need to offer boys a healthier model of masculinity that speaks to their needs — but doesn’t come at girls’ expense. That means listening to why women are pulling away and creating pathways for boys to grow without leaning on women.